COVER STORY
IN BANKING AND FINANCE Canadian Immigrant presents our tenth annual ‘Immigrant Women of Inspiration’ special – this year, the spotlight is on immigrant women who are contributing to strengthening the Canadian banking and financial sector. Every spring, in recognition of International Women’s Day, March 8, Canadian Immigrant spotlights women of inspiration in different fields. This year, we feature women in finance and banking who have embraced their position of influence to make a positive impact on our economy. While these women come from diverse cultural backgrounds, and
even generations, they all have inspirational stories — and advice — about pursuing their passion and have committed to leading and inspiring others to do more! Here are the journeys of Haiping Fu, Juliet ‘Kego Ume-Onyido, Souzan Esmaili, Ranjini Jha and Mehrsa Raeiszadeh.
By Rita Simonetta, Vivien Fellegi and Lisa Evans
Haiping Fu Seizing opportunities
H
aiping Fu’s successful career in the banking and finance sector began decades ago in China. The 41-yearold was born and raised on the island of Hainan, which was far removed from the hustle and bustle of neighbouring cities.
me,” says Fu. “He worked so hard to make a good living for his family.” She was also inspired by her father’s affinity for new experiences.
“When he would return, I was always so excited to hear his stories, to meet his new friends and to receive the gifts and toys that were not available on the island where I grew up. So, in a way, my father planted the To provide a bright future for his five seed for my growth in the outside world.” children, her father worked in business and In time, Fu seized the opportunity to trading, which involved extensive travel throughout China and time away from explore the outside world. Her cousin moved to Saint John to study at the University of home. New Brunswick. And once Fu graduated “My father was always a big influence on high school, she wanted to follow suit. 8
CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 20 Issue 2 | 2023
Haiping Fu